Ever Onward

Good Morning! 

True to form there's a ton that's happening as a missionary and almost enough time to accomplish it all. This week is shaping up to be a very good one, I hope it continues that way. 

We ran into some interesting unexpected difficulties this week. I was asked to film a goofy video for the Zone. I don't know exactly what our Zone Leaders were expecting, but this is one of the first times I haven't wanted to do something for them. We have also struggled in getting members to our lessons this week. And don't forget we might break our mile limit soon! 

In all of these difficulties, things tend to work out. God had his hand in our work. The video worked out and the Spanish Elders helped me relax. We've recommitted to having members at lessons. We're working to find some rides between the towns and some people are becoming available! 

Other completely unrelated tender mercies:

- we got to chastise (encourage with love) a ward

- despite lots of walking, the weather has been very pleasant

- I've felt more strength as I strive to serve with all my heart

- the departing missionary zoom call wasn't that bad

And our friend Manny is on-plan for baptism! We entered his lesson right after our preparation day ended last week. We answered some questions he had about the chapter he'd read in the Book of Mormon, and then we ask some inspired questions. At some point it clicks that if we don't invite him to be baptized, he can't exactly say yes. So when the opportunity is right, we extend the invitation, and Manny accepts! He'll be baptized on April 14th, my final Sunday as a missionary. 

I'm particularly grateful for this experience because I've put a lot of energy into Manny's lessons and I have a lot of love for him and his family. Setting him on-plan for baptism also helped me to feel more energy and excitement for the transfer. I really believe that this experience helped ground me for the rest of the week as I did my best to stay on top of the missionary schedule and remain focused. 

The following thought I will share is from my notes for this weeks email, though I have forgotten why it is there. 

We tend to judge others based off their actions, but we judge ourselves based on our intentions.

I find it interesting how often I am led to do this in my own life. Perhaps it will benefit your perspective on your life, and the interactions you have with others. 

If my emails feel a little shorter, or less insightful, that's because I've spent probably 6 or 7 hours at a computer today poking plans for after the mission. Hopefully I don't have to do too much more for the rest of the transfer. I really want to finish strong and retain enthusiasm for the work, but I feel (sometimes) that so many "going home" tasks to do distracts me from my purpose. 

Despite all this, I know the gospel we strive to live is true. It has shaped and blessed my life for the better. Covenants, such as the one made when we are baptized, are essential to our salvation and work as we are faithful to them. Our diligent efforts now, can and will change us, but only as we rely on the Atonement of Jesus Christ. I'm beyond grateful for all my experiences as a missionary, and I'm looking forward to a final month as a set apart representative of Jesus Christ!

- Elder Williams

Pictures:

1. The flats, just South of Milford!

2. Selfies in the wind.

3. They say put your ducks in a row, but why settle for ducks?

4. This building deserves to be in a zombie apocalypse.

5. Random missionary things.

6. There has been a lot of fog recently.

7. I don't photograph old cars, but everyone around me seemed impressed by this one.

8. Amos from Kanab was baptized!